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The Contemporary Workplace

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The Intercultural Professional

Part of the book series: Communicating in Professions and Organizations ((PSPOD))

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Abstract

In this chapter I explore conceptualisations of the phenomenon of increasingly complex linguistic and cultural diversity in the contemporary workplace. Current approaches to investigating the role of language(s) and culture(s) in professional life, and understandings of what is at stake for those involved, are discussed. I argue that our understandings may be expanded through an intercultural orientation that focuses on how professionals make sense of their lived experience of relocating to live and work, as they seek to redefine themselves on their own terms. Current understandings reveal complexity, challenge and risks, including risks of marginalisation and exclusion in the workplace, yet there is a growing interest in developing more in-depth knowledge of the possibilities and affordances, and how this is meaningful in the lives of professionals and those with whom they work.

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    Fiona O’Neill

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O’Neill, F. (2020). The Contemporary Workplace. In: The Intercultural Professional. Communicating in Professions and Organizations. Palgrave Macmillan, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-52531-6_2

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